New York Firearms Safety Course Practice Exam

Where should you point the muzzle of your firearm when shooting?

1. In the general direction of the target

2. Up in the air

3. Down at the ground

4. In a safe direction, away from people or buildings

The correct answer is: In a safe direction, away from people or buildings

Pointing the muzzle of your firearm in a safe direction, away from people or buildings, is essential for safety while handling firearms. This practice minimizes the risk of accidental discharge affecting people or damaging property. Ensuring the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction means that if something goes wrong, such as an unintentional trigger pull or a malfunction, the consequences are less likely to harm others. While pointing in the direction of the target is a common practice when actually aiming and shooting, it does not account for significant safety considerations when you are not in the act of shooting. Similarly, pointing the firearm up in the air or down at the ground can still pose risks, such as stray bullets falling back to the ground or ricocheting off surfaces, which could result in injury or property damage. Thus, maintaining the muzzle in a safe direction is the most responsible and safest practice.